Why Learn The Qur’an With Meaning
Traditionally, Muslim children only learn how to read the Qur’an and memorize it. There is little to no emphasis on its meaning, contemplation, or application. These are relegated to advanced Islamic Studies like seminaries and universities. but the vast majority of Muslims don’t go to Azhar or Deoband. Is the Qur’an only meant for the Scholars and Imams to understand and comprehend? We believe the Qur’an was sent to guide all of Humanity. the Arab bedouin and city dweller. The Native Arabic speaker and the Non Arab. The Sheikh and the dropout.
House of Qur'an aims to change the status quo by teaching students the meaning of the Surahs they learn and also introducing them to the rich language of Arabic that Allah ﷻ chose to reveal his book in.
Allah ﷻ states in Surah Yusuf: “We have revealed it in Arabic so that you may understand”. This statement was not only made to the bedouins of Arabia, but to all of humanity. we understand that learning the Qur’an is not easy, and adding the meaning on top makes it more challenging. But we believe that in the end our students will be able to relate to the Qur’an better and will have a unique love for the book of Allah ﷻ because of this. And to us, that is worth the effort.
Here are 5 more reasons why we should learn the Qur’an with meaning:
1. Understanding is our primary objective
The Quran is not just a book to be recited, but a guide to be understood. In Surah Yusuf, Allah states that the Quran was sent in Arabic so that everyone, not just the Arabs, can comprehend it. It is important to shift our mindset from mere recitation to a deeper understanding of the Quran's meaning. Even the Arabs during the Prophet's time, who spoke the language, still sought to uncover its full significance.
2. A beacon of light for us
In times of uncertainty, the Quran serves as a beacon of light to guide us through life's challenges. Combined with the Prophet's biography, it offers a remedy for every situation, whether good or bad.
3. It cultivates unity among Muslims
Unity in the Muslim community can be achieved through a shared understanding of the Quran. Allah commands us to hold onto His rope together and not to be divided. The Quran has the power to bring us together, despite our differences.
4. Instills Mindfulness of Allah within us
Understanding the Quran enables us to be mindful of God in our daily lives. When we pray, we are impacted by the words we speak to Allah, enriching our spiritual growth. The Quran aims to instill mindfulness of God within us, as mentioned in [2:2].
5. Promotes Islamic academic advancement
Learning Arabic early on allows us to study other religious texts, visit religious sites, and communicate with traditional scholars. By doing so, we continue the Prophet's legacy of passing down sacred knowledge. Traditional seminaries spend a great deal of time teaching Arabic to students. It is due to a lack of involvement in Arabic from a nearly age that Muslims find the language so foreign.
